Scooters are everywhere in Greece, from Athens to the smallest islands. They’re fun, cheap, easy to park, and probably, they’re the best way to explore. You’ll see them zipped around tight alleys, parked outside beaches, lined up at ferry ports..

License Requirements for Scooter Rental – This Is Important

Greece tightened scooter rules after too many accidents involving tourists. You need a proper motorcycle license to rent anything over 50cc. Don’t assume your regular car license will work just because it does back home! Greece only recognizes the categories printed on your license card, not domestic shortcuts from other countries.

Here’s the breakdown:

• 50cc mopeds: Car license (Category B) or moped license (Category AM) works
• 125cc scooters: You need motorcycle license A1, A2, or A (no exceptions). Greek car licenses with “Code 121” can ride 125cc, but that only applies to Greek licenses.
• Over 125cc: Category A2 or A required

Provisional, learner, and expired licenses are not accepted. Watch out for restriction codes like 79.03, 79.04, 79(3), 79(4)—these limit you to tricycles or mopeds, not two-wheel scooters.

Do You Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

This depends on where you’re from. EU and UK drivers don’t need an IDP: your national license is fine. And as of 2021, Greece officially recognizes valid national licenses from the USA, Canada, and Australia without an IDP.

What Happens If You Don’t Have the Right License?

Some companies might still rent to you, but it’s illegal to ride without the proper license. If you have an accident, your insurance is invalid and you’re in trouble with the police. Rental companies that follow insurance requirements will refuse the rental and you’ll forfeit your 20% deposit.

Not worth the risk.

Driving in Greece – Know What You’re Getting Into

Greece ranks 7th worst in the EU for road accident fatalities, with 59.6 deaths per million inhabitants. That’s 31% above the EU average. Greek drivers are aggressive, roads are constantly under repair, and traffic rules are more like suggestions. Combine inexperience with a scooter and unfamiliar roads, and you’ve got a recipe for trouble.

Safety Tips:

• Mountain roads: Views are incredible but curves can sneak up on you. Take it slow.
• Left turns: You’re small. Car drivers might not see you. Extend your arm way in advance (at least 200 meters) and make your intentions obvious.
• Closed-toe shoes: Always. Flip-flops and scooters don’t mix.
• Helmets: Required by law for both driver and passenger. Fines are your responsibility.
• Night riding: Avoid it if you’re not familiar with the area. Roads can be poorly lit and gravel appears out of nowhere on corners.
• Alcohol: Legal limit is 0.05 blood alcohol, 0.02 for novice drivers. Don’t push it.

Prices for Scooter Rental in Greece

Average scooter rental in Greece costs around €37 per day. Prices vary by island, season, and scooter size. Expect to pay less for longer rentals (week or more). Some companies offer rates as low as €10/day for 50cc scooters on bookings of 22+ days.

Third-party insurance is usually included. Extra fees might apply for flat tire protection or collision damage waiver. You pay for gas and any traffic fines.

Where to Find Scooters

Everywhere. Airports, hotels, hostels, standalone rental shops. Most islands have multiple companies competing for business.

Book online ahead of time, especially for July and August. Scooters get scarce during peak season and prices go up. Many companies offer free delivery to your hotel for 3+ day rentals.

Before You Rent:
• Bring your physical license card (not a photo or scan)
• Passport or ID
• Credit card for deposit
• IDP if required for your country
• Check the scooter for existing damage before you leave the lot
• Take photos of any scratches or dents
• Make sure you know how to operate it before you ride off

Insurance Warning

Check if your travel insurance covers scooter accidents. Many policies don’t cover riding experiences. If something happens and you’re not covered, you’re paying out of pocket.

>> Need travel insurance? Book it here

Gas Stations

Hours vary but many close around 7 PM on weekdays and are closed on Sundays. By law, at least one station in each area must stay open nights and Sundays, but don’t count on finding it easily. Fill up during the day.
Return your scooter with the same amount of fuel it had when you picked it up, or expect extra charges.

Note: this page includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission.